[8] Probably because he was asking for a lot of money (at least as late as the early winter). What's more, Dye has barely been a league average offensive player in 2 of the last 3 seasons, and regressed mightily as an outfielder. Thames may be a better option for the small role either one would fill.

[9] Griffey is a lefty, but I'd imagine sentimentality (and marketing) came into play.

Injury update on Nick Johnson...bruised knee...he will have surgery and miss the entire season (just kidding).